Each Year Region 16 awards a deserving individual a $1000.00 scholarship. This year the choice is Lorien Sopchak. Lorien is a Cum Laude graduate of SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry with a B.S. and Masters Degree and will be attending Iowa State University School of Veterinary Medicine.

During her time at college Lorien was an Undergraduate teaching assistant, a member of the Adirondack Society of Applied Philosophy, a group committed to he practical application of ethics to issues concerning the environment and education. Lorien was also a volunteer for Eagle Wings Academy in Syracuse, NY, teaching basic science and exposing underprivileged youth to equine activities.

Lorien has been able to balance her education and maintain an active show schedule. Lorien has received numerous local club awards and several Regional Championships, most recently showing her own horse Major Edition GA to a Region 16 Championship in 2011.

Working as a veterinary assistant at Finger Lakes Equine practice for the last two years has given Lorien practical experience and a view of what she has in her future. She intends to return to Region 16 and put her education to use caring for the horses she has loved.

Region 16 congratulates Lorien and wishes her the best with her studies at Iowa State University.